Lewis Stevenson signs new two-year deal with Hibs

DAVID HARDIE

Hibs’ longest-serving player, Lewis Stevenson, is to extend his career with the Easter Road club after signing a new two-year contract.

The 27-year-old made his debut in September 2005 under then manager Tony Mowbray, but believes he’s just enjoyed his best season yet, claiming current boss Alan Stubbs has brought out the best in him.

Stevenson, named man of the match as Hibs defeated Kilmarnock 5-1 to lift the CIS Insurance Cup in 2007, has now clocked up 267 games for the Capital club and he’s got his eyes set on playing many more.

He said: “I’m delighted to have agreed the new deal, I always wantd to stay with Hibs. The future here looks really bright, so hopefully I can now help the club to get promoted.

“It’s mad how quickly the past ten years have gone by, there have been some highs and also a few lows. But my aim is to be part of bringing the good times here again and that starts by winning promotion next season.

“When I made by debut for Hibs, I never thought that I would still be playing for the club ten years later. It’s an achievement to be at such a big club like Hibs for so long and hopefully I’ll be here for many more years to come.”

Although he’s been used as something of a utility man over the years, Stevenson believes he’s found his true position at left back, his performances last season seeing him voted into the PFA Scotland Championship team of the year.

He said: “Last year was probably my best season at the club. I’ll always be willing to play wherever the manager wants me to play, but it helps playing in the same position week in, week out.

“Left back is probably my best position. It suits the way I play and I’ve enjoyed working with the manager, he gives me the confidence and belief to play at the best of my ability.”

Stubbs described Stevenson’s new deal as the “reward” for the season he’s just had, saying: “Lewis’ decision to sign a new contract is another piece in the jigsaw coming together.

“I believe he has been a very influential player on the team. He’s been reliable and dependable and we’re really pleased he has pledged his future to the football club.

“He’s been a pleasure to work with, he’s a great pro who gets on with his job. He doesn’t say an awful lot, but the lads love him and that speaks volumes about his character and he always plays consistently well for the team.”

Stevenson’s deal completes a hectic week of activity for Stubbs with Fraser Fyvie, James Keatings and Dan Carmichael also clinching two-year deals, the head coach thanking fans for the support they’ve given him by buying season tickets and backing the club’s share offer.

He said: “They have enabled us to be proactive and sort our business out during the early stages of the summer break.

“The plan is to ensure we have everything properly in place for the start of the new season so we can hit the ground running and progress.”